The end of the year is a time for reflection on the past, and for thoughts of the future. So many of my favorite memories are of you and The Magnolia School, the source of long lasting connections between all of us. But The Magnolia School is much more than a memory. Now in its 23rd year, The Magnolia School continues to offer a unique and enriching experience for the children, parents and staff.

As you know, the Magnolia School environment gives children and young people a safe place to learn and grow. They are encouraged to develop academically, socially, and artistically, but without losing their individuality. And while our approach has inspired and influenced other schools in the area, we are unique in carrying out our commitment to our founding principles. What you remember—our multi-age classrooms, low student-teacher ratio, our small size, our integrated and active curriculum, our developmental student evaluations and portfolios—continues today. It is not easy, but we know it works. Our graduates have for years gone on to contribute lovingly and creatively to the life of our community. To continue this approach in the age of the FCAT, we need your help now.

Nearly 80% of the tuition paid by our fifty-six current students goes directly to paying the modest salaries of our wonderful teachers. Your donation would maintain and protect the school itself. With your help, we recently replaced the middle school roof and made other repairs. We have also installed a beautiful new school sign on Tharpe Street. Come on by and take a look! Soon, we will need to replace the aging playground equipment and the school bus.

The winter holiday season is a time to renew connections. We hope your connection with The Magnolia School has enriched your life. In exchange, your tax-deductible financial contribution this month would bring new life to the school for the current generation of students.